The Central Bank of Sri Lanka issued a 1,000-rupee commemorative banknote
In 2018, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka issued a 1,000-rupee commemorative banknote to mark the 70th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s independence (1948-2018). This milestone celebrated seven decades of self-rule since the country (formerly Ceylon) gained independence from British colonial rule on February 4, 1948.
This limited-edition banknote was released to highlight Sri Lanka’s unity, cultural diversity, and national heritage, showcasing historical landmarks, traditional arts, and ethnic harmony.
Overview of the Front and Back Note
The obverse (front) side of the banknote features a montage of Sri Lankan heritage sites, including the Independence Memorial Hall, a Buddhist stupa, a Hindu temple, a mosque, and a Christian church, symbolizing the nation’s religious and cultural diversity. To the right, a Layard’s Parakeet (Psittacula calthropae), a bird endemic to Sri Lanka, is depicted, representing the country’s rich biodiversity. The “70th Independence Celebration” emblem is printed with the phrase “Celebrating Diversity,” emphasizing Sri Lanka’s multicultural unity.
The reverse (back) side of the banknote showcases a traditional Sri Lankan cultural performance, with two dancers in elaborate attire representing the Kandyan dance tradition. The intricate detailing of the dancers’ costumes and movements highlights the vibrancy of Sri Lankan traditional art and cultural expression.
Design Features
Obverse (Front)
- Illustration of National Heritage Sites – Featuring Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, and Christian religious sites, symbolizing Sri Lanka’s multi-religious coexistence.
- Independence Memorial Hall – A tribute to Sri Lanka’s struggle for self-rule and national pride.
- Layard’s Parakeet (Psittacula calthropae) – Representing Sri Lanka’s unique wildlife and natural beauty.
- “70th Independence Celebration” Emblem – Marking the seven-decade milestone of Sri Lanka’s sovereignty.
- Denomination “1000 Rupees” – Clearly printed in both Sinhala and English.
- Official Signature of the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka – Authenticating the issuance.
Reverse (Back)
- Two Traditional Sri Lankan Kandyan Dancers – Depicting Sri Lanka’s rich performing arts heritage.
- Denomination “1000 Rupees” – Clearly displayed for easy recognition.
- Intricate Background Designs – Inspired by Sri Lankan traditional motifs and cultural symbols.
Color Scheme
- The front side features a dominant green, gold, and yellow color palette, reflecting Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural harmony.
- The back side integrates shades of green, brown, and orange, symbolizing Sri Lanka’s artistic and historical traditions.
This vibrant and meaningful color scheme enhances the visual appeal and commemorative importance of the note.
Dimensions
- Width: 157 mm
- Length: 79 mm
This size aligns with Sri Lanka’s standard banknote dimensions, ensuring that the note is easily recognizable and collectible.
Security Features
The 2018 “70th Independence Celebration” 1000 Rupees Commemorative Banknote integrates state-of-the-art security features to prevent counterfeiting and ensure authenticity:
- Watermark – A hidden image of a Sri Lankan cultural symbol, visible when held against the light.
- Security Thread – A thin metallic strip embedded in the banknote, running vertically.
- Microprinting – Tiny text that can only be seen under magnification, preventing forgery.
- Raised Printing – Certain elements, such as the denomination and text, have a tactile texture, allowing authentication by touch.
- UV Features – Special serial numbers and text glow under ultraviolet light, confirming authenticity.
- Color-Shifting Ink – Some text and security features change color when viewed from different angles, enhancing protection.
- Complex Background Designs – Inspired by Sri Lankan art and architecture, making the note difficult to replicate.
These modern security features ensure that the note remains durable, resistant to counterfeiting, and highly valuable for collectors.
Circulation and Collectibility
- This 1000-rupee commemorative note was issued in limited quantities, making it a rare and valuable collector’s item.
- While it was legal tender, it was not widely circulated, as many people kept it as a souvenir of Sri Lanka’s historic independence milestone.
- The significance of marking 70 years of independence makes it highly desirable among numismatists, historians, and Sri Lankan citizens.
- Over time, its rarity and connection to the theme of national unity and cultural heritage have increased its investment and sentimental value.
- Many copies remain in uncirculated condition, making them even more desirable among collectors.